James R. Willette, 83

Easton – James R. Willette, age 83, of Easton, died Thursday, Nov. 17, 2022. A Mass of Christian Burial was held Tuesday, Nov. 22, at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Easton, Father Greg Havel and Deacon Gene Paul officiated. Interment was at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cemetery in Barber Township, Faribault County, Minnesota. In lieu of flowers, donations preferred to Seasons Hospice in Rochester. Nasinec Funeral Home in Wells is entrusted with arrangements. See www.nasinecfh.com to leave online condolences.

James was born March 6, 1939 in Blue Earth, the son of Louis and Mary (Bias) Willette. He attended Dowling High School in Des Moines, Iowa. James was united in marriage to Carolyn Paul on Aug. 20, 1970 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Easton.

James is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Carolyn, of Easton; sons: Brad (Lori), of Omaha, Nebraska, Paul (Cindy), of Detroit, Michigan, and Darin (Rebecca), of North Mankato; daughter, Michele (Bryan) Gorny, of Denver, Colorado; nine grandchildren: Carter, Logan, Makayla (fiancé Peyton Warner), Mallory, Margaret, Monica, Paige Gorny; Louis, Greta, and baby, Willette due in April 2023; and sister, Sharon Ward, of Mapleton, along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Mary; brothers, Richard (Ann) Willette, Marvin (Elaine) Willette; brother-in-law, Everette Ward; and nephew, Tony Willette.